Study Abroad Planning Timeline

Review the Study Abroad Planning timeline below and become familiar with the steps you need to take before departure, while abroad, and after you return.

When should I start planning to study abroad?

We recommend that you start planning to study abroad as early as possible in your college career. If you begin to plan in your first year at Hunter, you will have the most flexibility in finding a program that meets your needs for coursework, timing, and location. However, we work with students at all stages of their Hunter career.

The timeline below outlines the specific planning steps for studying abroad. If you start working with our office 5-6 months in advance of your intended term abroad, there may still be sufficient time to find a program that fits your academic, professional, and personal goals.

5+ Months Before Departure

Step 1 – Learn About Study Abroad

Browse our website, attend a virtual information session, schedule an appointment with one of our advisors.

Step 2 – Talk to Your Advisors

What terms works best for you? What courses could you take abroad? How does studying abroad fit into your academic plan?

Step 3 – Research Programs

Research study abroad programs you are interested in applying for.

Step 4 – Research Finances and Scholarships

How do you plan to pay for your study abroad experience? Do you receive financial aid that could be applied to your program cost?

4-5 Months Before Departure

Step 5 - Submit Hunter Study Abroad Application

Review deadline details on our apply page.

student working on laptop filling out application

Step 6 - Apply to Your Program

After your application has been approved by our office, apply directly to your program.

2-3 Months Before Departure

Step 7 – Prepare for Departure

Complete required Hunter Study Abroad documentation. Attend a virtual Hunter Study Abroad Pre-Departure Orientation and complete program requirements.

While Abroad

hunter students dressed in traditional clothing

Step 8 – Go Abroad!

Enjoy your experience abroad! Our office will stay in touch through your time abroad to offer support and guidance.

After You Return

Step 9 – Re-entry

We can't wait hear about your experience abroad! Share your stories and pictures. Attend a re-entry session. Complete a program evaluation.

Step 10 - Career Possibilities

Visit the Career Center! They’ll help you showcase this journey on your resume and leverage it for exciting future opportunities.